Jenny is getting stronger every day - August2025

We wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who has supported Mum and Dad over the past few months. Since starting this campaign in early July, over $3,300 has been raised, and we are truly grateful for every donation, message of encouragement, and the love shown to our family. 

At the end of July, Jenny moved into the Rehabilitation Unit where she has been working so hard with the physio and occupational therapy teams. Her resilience has been incredible. From practicing hand and eye coordination with play-doh vegetables, to standing unassisted for 30 seconds, she has now reached the milestone of standing for 2 minutes without support. She has also walked two lots of 10 metres with a walker, unassisted, and even taken part in cycling exercises in the gym. Each achievement has been a reminder of her strength and determination, and recently brought tears of joy to her eyes, knowing she is regaining independence step by step. 

Doctors will reassess Jenny at the end of September to determine when she may be able to return home. However, at present the bathroom is not accessible for her needs. The renovation costs are just under $7,000 (not including labour), and while the generosity so far has helped immensely, we still need to raise another $3,500 to make these vital changes so Jenny can safely return home. 

Your continued support means the world to us. Whether it’s through a donation, sharing this campaign with others, or keeping Jenny and Ken in your thoughts, every bit of kindness brings us closer to the goal of having Jenny back in the comfort of her own home.

From the bottom of our hearts – thank you.

___________________________

We are reaching out to you today to help support two incredible individuals, Ken and Jenny Gayton, who have dedicated their lives to their family and community in Charters Towers, Queensland. Married for 59 years, their unwavering bond has been a source of inspiration for all who know them. Unfortunately, Jenny has recently faced significant health challenges that have changed their lives.

Ken, born in 1943, has called Charters Towers home for 77 years. Jenny, born in 1948, returned to the area in 1965 after living on cattle properties. Together, they have raised three children, Kylie, Ian and Nicole, welcomed 11 grandchildren, and are proud to have 8 great-grandchildren with another on the way. Their home is filled with laughter and love, where family traditions like holiday trips to Trinity Beach and Christmas lunches at Nanna's remain cherished.

Ken and Jenny have always been active in their community. Ken has served in various roles, including as president of the Lions Club, where he initiated programs to install smoke detectors in homes for the elderly, and as a dedicated member of the fire brigade for 25 years. Jenny has contributed as a hairdresser, teacher aide, and volunteer, embodying the spirit of giving and community support.

Recently, Jenny underwent spinal surgery but faced serious complications, including a life-threatening e-coli infection and a subsequent fall resulting in a brain bleed. The prognosis remains uncertain, with the family hoping for recovery but preparing for potential long-term challenges. Despite these setbacks, there have been positive signs, including her ability to respond with eye movement.

Ken and Jenny live modestly on a pension in an aging home that needs renovations to make it accessible for their current needs. The emotional toll on their family has been immense, as they navigate the uncertainties of Jenny’s health.

To support their journey, we are seeking financial assistance to cover:

- Rehabilitation and therapy costs

- Transportation to medical appointments

- Home renovations for accessibility (bathroom, kitchen, and ramp)

- A mobility scooter for Ken

The anticipated costs for these needs total around $30,000.

**How You Can Help:**

We humbly ask for your support during this challenging time. Any financial contributions would be immensely appreciated, and sharing this campaign within your networks would help us reach more people who may be willing to help.

The outpouring of love and support from friends and family has been overwhelming. From meals provided by neighbours to family traveling from afar to assist with the driving from Charters Towers to Townsville return daily, we are truly grateful.

In Ken’s words, "We’ve always been the ones to look after others; it’s hard for us to accept help ourselves." This campaign is a way for us, their children and grandchildren, to give back and ensure their home remains a loving and accessible place for Jenny’s return.

Thank you for considering supporting Ken and Jenny. Your kindness makes a world of difference.

Here is a link to a short video of the much needed bathroom renovation to make it more accessible for Ken and Jenny. 

https://youtube.com/shorts/aYTP2OdoeSQ?feature=shared